The Lions released wide receiver Nate Burleson on Thursday. The move understandably saddened Burleson, but didn't shock him. He said in a radio interview that he will "miss playing in Honolulu Blue" but admitted that the team's decision was "realistic."
"[Lions executives] probably were sitting up there in meetings last week saying, 'If Nate plays a whole year, he can be one of the more productive pieces of this offense," Burleson said. "But can we count on that? Can we guarantee he will play 16 games?' I am sure that factored into what they were saying."
Burleson, 32, hasn't played a full season since 2011. He missed 10 games in 2012 due to a broken leg. He missed seven games this season due to a broken arm sustained in a car crash.
Burleson also said he has already been in contact with a couple of teams and expects to find a new place to continue his career soon.

Fantasy Analysis:

Burleson's $5.5 million salary for 2014 probably made this decision a given. The Lions have a dangerous offense, but they don't have established threat out wide across from Calvin Johnson. Ryan Broyles' knees could be shot. Kris Durham is not the answer. Perhaps Joseph Fauria picks up the slack? No. 2 wide receiver continues to be an area of need for the Lions.
Burleson, even at this point in his career can help an NFL team. Think Jets or Redskins. From a fantasy perspective, Burleson will be worth watching only in very deep PPR re-draft leagues or more specifically draft-n-go leagues where the production can count on weeks where you're not expecting it. Good luck in your future endeavors Nate!